It literally pains me every time my younger sister and mother talk about “going tanning.” No matter how many studies, facts, figures, and other gruesome details I divulge (either outright, or through menacing articles taped on the fridge and ominous messages left on voicemail). Of course, they think that as a redhead, I avoid the sun at all costs simply because I don’t want to look like Rock Lobster.

I’ve been gradually trying to increase the health of my family’s skin over the last few years. We’ve switched to natural, organic, all-the-bells-and-whistles soap, laundry detergent, shampoo, deodorant, and anything else we lather up in. We’ve also taken to using sunscreen anytime we know we’ll be outside for a while—something I have no recollection of as a child!

I’m continually learning about new ways to help keep my family happy and healthy, and while I’m probably completely paranoid and a chronic worrier (what mom isn’t?), I think skin health is pretty important. In honor of Skin Care Awareness Month, here are six reasons why you should take care of the skin you’re in.

6. It’s one of the best things to do for your beauty routine. Why bother tanning and being treated to correct sun damage—when you can simply prevent the problem now by protecting yourself against the sun instead? With your healthy, natural skin, you probably won’t need much makeup, either.

5. Keep clean and healthy. Develop a skin cleaning routine this month and stick to it for beautiful, healthy skin. See a doctor for recommendations based on your skin type, and ask about the best, safest products to use.

4. Save money. Skip the tanning salon and use the money for a healthy skin product, like a natural cleanser, and a self-tanner. You’ll probably still have more money left over, so why not treat your skin to a massage, too?

3. Take a dip in the fountain of youth. Sun-damaged skin often makes you look much older; taking care of your skin can prevent wrinkles, damage and premature aging.

2. Teach your children well. We all know that kids learn by example, so if you have them, think about this: would you rather they copy you lathering on sunscreen, or tanning and damaging your skin cells?

1. You can ward off skin cancer. Since skin cancer is a leading disease among women, it makes sense to not encourage its development.